"Let's Talk..."

Launched in 2016, the “Let’s Talk...” Discussion Series is an inclusive monthly after-work gathering of experts, Fellows and guests who come together to enjoy great conversation – not a lecture – on important global imperatives. The Series covers today’s hottest issues in international relations and global economics, and we’d welcome your voice.
These more intimate events are an ideal way to get to know your fellow DCFR members and tap into the expertise of our organization. And please bring a guest who might have an interest in membership!

Cash Bar and food available for purchase. A respectful, convivial and lively conversation using Chatham House Rule.

2017 PROGRAMS
May 23, 2017, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Fernando's, 4514 Travis Street, Dallas"LET'S TALK...NATO - CAN ITS ISSUES BE FIXED?"Moderator:Frank Hytken, President at Covesco Fund Management CompanyEstablished in 1949 NATO has served as a reliable deterrent to Soviet Union/Russian aggression for its member nations. Now, sixty-eight years later additional threats present themselves to the twenty-eight member NATO nations. The alliance is not as strong or committed as it once was. Only five of the members are pulling their weight in terms of military spending. Member countries have been slow to support or have refused to support the U.S. in Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq. New smaller members to the alliance such as the Baltic countries could drag the organization into a major conflict with Russia.

April 18, 2017, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at U.T. Dallas"LET'S TALK...THE GEOPOLITICAL IMPACT OF TURKEY"Moderator:Dr. Hasan Pirkul, Dean of the Jindal School of Management, U.T. DallasThere are major political changes sweeping Turkey, once the gateway to the Middle East for the West. As the Muslim Brotherhood becomes more powerful in Turkey the once strong military relationship with NATO and separately with the U.S. has become severely strained. It is reported the U.S. may move it's nuclear weapons from Turkey to another NATO host. Turkey's relations with the EU are similarly strained as it allows jihadists and large numbers of refugees to cross its boarders into Europe. Under President Erdogan can Turkey repair it's relations with the West?March 21, 2017, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Fernando's, 4514 Travis Street, Dallas"LET'S TALK...RUSSIA: A THREAT BUT CAN WE WORK TOGETHER"Moderator:Dr. Daniel T. Orlovsky, Professor and George Bouhe Research Fellow in Russian Studies Russia and Soviet Union, SMURussia is at the center of our attention. Hacking, interfering in U.S. and European elections, and military adventures in the Crimea, Ukraine and Syria are creating tension with the U.S. Some observers say Russia is a mob state and another cold war is inevitable. Others think that while we have different national interests, Russia could still be a strategic partner. What are your thoughts?February 21, 2017,5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Fernando's, 4514 Travis Street, Dallas"LET'S TALK...THE GEOPOLITICAL IMPACT OF FAKE NEWS"Moderator: Gordon Dee Smith, CEO and Principal, Strategic Insight Group
Fake news is the fabrication of fictitious information to deceive readers with the goal of influencing public thought and profit. Most fake news is circulated by unscrupulous websites, but more and more by shadowy companies employed by government agencies or organizations using cut outs, decoys and other means to hide their involvement. Come join us in a discussion on how fake news is made, who the bad actors are, whether it can be spotted and its geopolitical impact.January 17, 2017, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Mesero, 2822 N. Henderson Avenue, Dallas"LET’S TALK…CUBA"Moderator: Webb Spradley, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Mexichem USA and Dura‐Line
Since the early 1960’s the U.S. has been in conflict with this small communist nation. The Bay of Pigs, The Cuban Missile Crisis, the Castro brothers, Che Guevara, the U.S. economic embargo, and refugees fleeing to the U.S. for freedom are all part of our history over the last 56 years. Fidel Castro is dead and Raul will soon be out of the picture. Will Cuba remain the center of communism in the Americas or will it turn to democracy and an economic revival?